How to Get a Great Finish Plastering Walls and Ceilings: Expert Tips and Techniques for Skimming

Plastering: Top Tips for a DIY skim coat (even over artex)

Applying a DIY skim coat can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, anyone can achieve a smooth finish. Preparing the surface is key, whether it's wallpaper, plasterboard, drywall, or even artex. Start by cleaning the area and fixing any cracks. Mix the plaster to a thick consistency, similar to porridge. Use a wide trowel to spread it evenly. Remember, practice makes perfect, and patience is essential for achieving a professional look.

DIY Skimming Resources

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Plastering Projects: Tips for Skimming Success

Planning to plaster a wall at home can be a rewarding project. Practising on a lower surface first is wise, as it’s easier to handle than working overhead. Always ensure tools are clean; even tiny bits of dried plaster can spoil your work.

Water plays a key role in plastering. Diluting ready-mixed plaster initially can help manage the application. Continuously moistening the surface while working makes smoothing easier. A light mist spray directly onto the plaster can be used, followed by smoothing with a tool or even a damp sponge. These steps will help in achieving a smooth finish for painting or other decoration. Proper preparation and techniques lead to successful plastering projects.

What about the risk of asbestos?

If an Artex ceiling is present, it's crucial to determine if it contains asbestos. Artex ceilings often used white asbestos (chrysotile) until it was banned in the UK in 1999. Asbestos fibres are dangerous if released into the air, such as through sanding, drilling, or scraping. Once airborne, these fibres can be inhaled, potentially causing cancer and other severe diseases.

Recommendations:

• Testing: Always test the Artex ceiling for asbestos before starting any work.
• Precautions: If testing isn't feasible, handle the ceiling as if it contains asbestos. Avoid disturbing it.
• Notification: Inform future buyers of any work done on an Artex ceiling.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When working with potential asbestos, always wear proper PPE:

• Masks: Use appropriate respirators.
• Clothing: Wear disposable coveralls.
• Gloves: Use sturdy gloves to avoid contact.

Other Risks

• Oil and Mold: Besides asbestos, ensure there are no oil or mold problems, as these can affect health and safety.

Taking these steps ensures safety and compliance with health regulations.

Which plaster for skimming walls and ceilings?

For small areas or single walls, ready-mixed plaster is convenient and easy to use. Simply open the container, and it’s ready to apply. For smoother results, consider adding some cold water to adjust the consistency. Different types include bonding plaster for base coats and multi-finish plaster for a smooth, final layer. PVA glue is recommended to prime walls before skimming.

Which tools should I use for skimming walls and ceilings?

When skimming walls and ceilings, tools you'll need include a trowel, hawk, and a bucket of plaster. Start by cleaning and dusting the surface to remove debris. Use a paintbrush or roller to apply a PVA glue primer. Keep a spray bottle handy to mist the surface if it dries out.

A ladder or step ladder helps reach high areas, while dust sheets protect your floor. Use a paddle mixer or power mixer to ensure the plaster is smooth. A preparation setup, including a tarp for easy cleanup and a taping knife for spreading plaster, is essential.

Optimal Thickness for Each Skim Coat of Plaster

Each skim coat should be between 1-2mm thick. After applying two coats, the overall thickness should be around 3mm. For uneven surfaces, it's better to add a third coat on troubled areas rather than making any coat too thick. This helps prevent cracks and ensures a smooth finish.

Should You Skim Coat the Entire Wall or Just the Repaired Section?

When addressing damaged walls, one can either patch localised repairs or skim coat the entire wall. This decision largely depends on the state and size of the walls.

If the wall is in good condition with only damaged sections, it might be unnecessary to skim coat the whole surface. Patching the repairs can often suffice. The process involves fixing the damaged areas before skimming over them to merge with the surrounding texture seamlessly.

Conversely, if a wall has extensive issues, skimming the whole surface might be beneficial. Although it requires more effort, this approach ensures an even, smooth finish across the entire wall or ceiling. This method is particularly useful for previously plastered walls that might have widespread imperfections.

For instance, in a recent project, the upper part of a wall was already skimmed. In such cases, only the new damages from removed panelling were patched and skim coated. The bottom half of the wall was skimmed and blended into the previously skimmed top part. Post-painting, the patched sections became invisible, resulting in a flawless finish.

Skim coating can apply to both interior and exterior walls, though it is more commonly used indoors. Whether it's a ceiling or a wall, consider the overall condition to decide between patching repairs or skimming the entire surface.